NI same-sex couples go to Republic to get married

AT LEAST 43 same-sex couples from Northern Ireland have married in the Republic or in other parts of the UK, it has been reported. BBC research revealed the figures based on statistics from 2016. Of those reported, 27 weddings were held in the Republic of Ireland. A further 11 took place in Scotland, while five were held in England or Wales.

However, the number could be greater as authorities have said some couples give their hotel address instead of their home address for the ceremony.

Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK which doesn’t recognise same-sex marriage. It means that when the couples return to Northern Ireland their union is only recognised as a civil partnership.

There have been five attempts to introduce same-sex marriage in the Assembly, one of them in 2015 when Assembly members backed legalising same-sex marriage by 53 votes to 52.

However, a DUP petition of concern meant it did not receive the necessary cross-community backing which would allow it onto the statute books. THE funeral took place yesterday of one of local football’s bestknown characters.

Crusaders secretary Harry Davison (right) passed away suddenly last month.

Affectionately known as ‘Harry D’, Mr Davison was hugely respected at the north Belfast club, where his work spanned more than 30 years.

Yesterday a service of thanksgiving took place at Sinclair Seaman’s Presbyterian Church in Belfast’s Sailortown.

Mr Davison’s coffin was carried past Seaview, the home of his beloved Crusaders, for the final time, draped in the colours of the club.

Mr Davison died on May 29. Tributes were paid by a series of players, including the team’s star winger Gavin Whyte, who said he would be sadly missed.

Those who knew him recalled how his dry wit made him popular with everyone, including the players who loved him, and there was respect and admiration for his work throughout the Irish League.

Yesterday’s service was followed by committal at Roselawn crematorium.

His family requested that donations in lieu of flowers be made to the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.